The Senate Standing Committee on Education has urged the Kericho County Government to strengthen the management and infrastructure of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres and Vocational Training Institutions following concerns raised during an ongoing oversight exercise in the county.
Led by Committee Chairperson Betty Montet, the Senate team inspected several ECDE centres and Vocational Training Centres alongside County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Culture and Social Services Judith Chepkorir Chirchir, members of the County Assembly Education Committee led by Chairperson Hon. David Maritim, and county education officials.
During the visits, senators raised concerns over inadequate infrastructure, shortage of learning materials, lack of feeding programmes in some centres, and the absence of independent management structures for ECDE institutions.
“As a Committee, we want to see ECDE learners studying in safe, child-friendly environments with proper classrooms, sanitation facilities, kitchens, playgrounds, and independent management structures separate from primary schools,” said Sen. Montet.
The Committee noted that most ECDE centres in the county continue to operate under neighbouring primary schools and lack their own Boards of Management, a situation members said undermines effective administration and prioritisation of ECDE-specific needs.
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At Kachawir ECDE Centre, previously thrust into the spotlight after learners were forced to study under a tree at Kachawir Comprehensive School, senators acknowledged progress in classroom construction. However, the Committee observed that the institution still faces a shortage of desks and other essential learning facilities.
Sen. Agnes Kavindu Muthama called on the county government to invest further in additional classrooms and establish independent ECDE facilities.
“ECDE learners deserve safe, child-friendly spaces with adequate facilities and management structures specifically designed to support their learning and development,” said Kavindu.
At Chepklon ECDE Centre, the Committee expressed concern over the absence of a county-supported feeding programme, noting that parents are currently sustaining the initiative through personal contributions.
Vice Chairperson Sen. Margaret Kamar underscored the importance of school feeding programmes in improving concentration, attendance, and learning outcomes among children.
“School feeding programmes remain essential in Early Childhood Education. Counties must prioritise nutrition because children cannot learn effectively on an empty stomach,” observed Kamar.
The Committee later visited Kerego ECDE Centre, where senators raised concerns after noting that PP1 and PP2 classrooms are situated nearly 150 metres apart, a situation members said compromises learner safety and effective supervision.
Sen. Ole Kanar Seki urged county officials and the County Assembly Education Committee to prioritise proper classroom planning to ensure young learners study in secure and organised environments.
“These children require spaces specifically designed for their safety, comfort, and learning. ECDE must be accorded the attention and independence it deserves,” said Sen. Seki.
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At Chepseon Vocational Training Centre, senators acknowledged ongoing practical training activities in the Mechanical and Electrical Engineering departments but challenged the county government to improve staffing levels and instructor support.
Sen. Nderitu Kinyua called for the formal employment of a beauty instructor who has reportedly served at the institution for more than three years under Board of Management terms.
Meanwhile, Sen. Johnnes Mwaruma raised concern over the low number of men enrolling in tailoring and dressmaking courses despite the growing number of men operating tailoring businesses in towns and markets.
“We continue to see many men successfully operating tailoring businesses, yet very few are enrolling for training in these institutions. There is a need to encourage more young people to embrace vocational training opportunities,” said Sen. Mwaruma.
The senator also commended the institution for engaging a female trainer in the Electrical Department, saying it reflected the importance of promoting gender inclusivity in technical fields traditionally viewed as male-dominated.
Responding to the concerns raised during the oversight exercise, CECM Judith Chepkorir Chirchir assured the Committee that the county government remains committed to addressing the challenges affecting ECDE centres and Vocational Training Institutions across Kericho County.
By Juma Ndigo
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